Dr. Kavitha Dhandapani is an Assistant Professor (Senior Scale) in the Department of Biochemistry, Biotechnology, and Bioinformatics at Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore, India. With a PhD in Biotechnology and expertise in microbiomes, antimicrobial resistance, and computational biology, she focuses on developing innovative solutions for infectious disease management. Her research includes AI-based detection systems for foodborne pathogens and natural compound-based antimicrobial strategies. She is a recipient of the Amma Avargal Chair Award for Best Researcher and an active member of several scientific societies.
Scopus
Summary:
Dr. Kavitha Dhandapani has demonstrated a strong trajectory in research with clear societal relevance, especially in the fields of microbiology, antimicrobial resistance, and biotechnology. Her innovative work in AI-driven diagnostics and natural therapeutics, supported by patents and awards, positions her as a strong candidate for national-level research recognition. However, international collaborations, increased citation metrics, and mentorship records could further elevate her standing.
🎓 Education
Dr D Kavitha holds a PhD in Biotechnology from Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore, completed in 2010. She earned an MPhil in Biotechnology from Bharathidasan University, Trichy, in 2005. In addition, she completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Bioinformatics in 2003 and a Master of Science in Biotechnology in 2000, both from Bharathiar University, Coimbatore. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Biotechnology from Avinashilingam Institute in 1998.
💼Experience
Dr Kavitha is currently serving as Assistant Professor (Senior Scale) in the Department of Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics at the School of Biosciences, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore. She has been actively involved in both teaching and research, mentoring students and leading projects in various interdisciplinary areas.
🔬Research Focus
Dr Kavitha’s research primarily addresses critical challenges in human and environmental health through the One Health approach. One of her key contributions includes the development of an AI-based detection system for Listeria monocytogenes, a major foodborne pathogen, to facilitate rapid and accurate identification, thereby enhancing traditional diagnostic practices. Her team also focuses on creating biocontrol agents for aflatoxigenic fungi in maize, designing host-guest inclusion complexes, and formulating natural compound-based efflux pump inhibitors to combat microbial pathogens and reduce antimicrobial resistance. A patent related to her AI-based detection system has been published, showcasing the translational impact of her work.
🛠️Skills
Her core areas of expertise include microbiomes, antimicrobial resistance, infectious diseases, computational biology, and product development. She has demonstrated skills in both wet-lab research and computational approaches, especially in developing innovative diagnostics and therapeutics.
🏆Awards
Dr Kavitha received the Amma Avargal Chair Award for Best Researcher in 2024. She was recognized as the University Coordinator for the Microbiologists Society of India in 2022. She cleared the State Eligibility Test (SET) in 2012 and was the recipient of the DST-Women Scientist Scheme A award in 2010. Additionally, she is a life member of prestigious professional bodies including the Society of Biological Chemists, the Indian Science Congress Association, and the Microbiologists Society of India.